ALTRAZEAL FAQ

ALTRAZEAL is composed of powder particles that are the result of rigorous research and development where the product has been engineered to provide transformational wound-healing benefits. This precise scale and proportion is designed to provide optimal oxygen and moisture vapor transpiration, as well as microbial impermeability, tensile strength, and flexibility.

Upon contact with exudate, the ALTRAZEAL powder particles aggregate to form a moist, flexible film and an intimate contact with the wound bed. No other dressing is known to conform so closely to the wound bed on a microcellular level. Although the precise mechanism of action has not been determined, it is believed that this close contact and high moisture vapor transpiration rate (MVTR) creates a low pressure at the interface between the dressing and wound bed that stimulates the formation of healthy granulation tissue.

Gently mist or drip sterile normal saline or equivalent over the surface of the ALTRAZEAL powder. Mist the saline solution at about 6 inches from the surface or drip saline near the wound edge and allow droplets to settle into the powder.

For complete application instructions, application-demo or download the “How to Apply” instructions for health care professionals or the “How to Apply” instructions for patients.

ALTRAZEAL can remain in place up to 30 days as long as the wound produces exudate. The wound should be inspected for infection, inflammation, excessive bleeding or fluid, odor, and irritation. The dressing should be changed or removed if clinically necessary.

No; oil-based products, particularly ointments, salves, or other treatments, will prevent optimal hydration and aggregation at the wound surface. ALTRAZEAL should be applied with sterile normal saline or similar product, if necessary.

Yes, but patients should be advised to take special care to avoid soaking the dressing. Patients should be advised not to allow the dressing to be immersed underwater for any amount of time, as it may come off.

ALTRAZEAL is most effective when used on exuding, non-infected wounds. See Full Prescribing Information for indications and contraindications.

ALTRAZEAL can be used on wounds with infection only under medical supervision with appropriate therapy and frequent monitoring. While ALTRAZEAL provides no antimicrobial activity to reverse infection, ALTRAZEAL does provide a protective barrier that is impermeable to microbes. Best practices for the preparation of infected wounds, including debridement, should be performed before ALTRAZEAL is applied. Health care professionals should always follow their institution’s protocol.

While ALTRAZEAL can remain on the wound for up to 30 days, if it is deemed necessary to remove the dressing, thoroughly saturate the dressing with sterile normal saline or equivalent until softened, and remove with forceps or a similar instrument.

ALTRAZEAL is supplied as a sterile white powder in a single-use, sterile foil-laminate pouch. It is available in either 2-gram or 5-gram pouches. The 2-gram pouch will cover approximately a 6 inch x 6 inch area (15 cm x 15 cm), while the 5-gram pouch will cover approximately a 10 inch x 10 inch area (25 cm x 25 cm).